My first thought is to put spending in perspective. We all have discretionary income. Where do you get the most value?
For example, if I go out to dinner I'm likely to spend more than the cost of a hardcover book. In a few hours the experience is over although it was enjoyable.
If I buy a hardcover book, however, it's going to last longer than a meal. And in the end I have something tangible to hang on to.
My spending habit on books, however, is still under some control. I use my library often and maybe purchase a new hardcover once a month.
What's your spending habit on books and have you noticed a change?
Musing Monday is hosted by Should Be Reading.
When I am in Melbourne I do not spend anything on books (I spend about five months of every year here) The library at Carnegie is excellent and I get what I like.
ReplyDeleteWhen I am in Colombo its another story! I buy second hand only - huge range from ancient dusty books to whatever has been discarded yesterday! its a real lucky dip kind of search. Costs are low so I can indulge. New books are out of the question in Sri Lanka.
I try to support the indies but have had to cut back a bit on my book buying budget since last year. I still shop but end up shopping more on Amazon and Half Price Books. And, I hardly ever buy hardback but that's mainly because I think reading trade paperbacks is more comfy :)
ReplyDeleteMystica--Next time I'm in Melbourne I'll check and see if you'll be there. It would be fun to meet you.
ReplyDeleteIliana--I agree that the price point is important and it's hard to pass on a good Amazon deal. My TBR list is so long that usually if I buy a hardback, it's in paperback by the time I get around to reading it.
Aloha from Rob